Praying mantises are insect predators known for their diverse coloration, which allows them to function as ambush hunters globally. They exhibit a stunning array of hues, directly linked to their life strategy. This diversity helps them blend into their surroundings, whether hiding among leaves, bark, or flower petals.
The Dominant Colors of Camouflage
The vast majority of mantis species are found in shades of green, brown, or tan, a form of camouflage known as crypsis. The function of this coloration is two-fold: it helps the mantis avoid being eaten by predators like birds and lizards, and it allows them to remain undetected by the insects they hunt.
Green mantises are ambush predators that live in lush foliage, mimicking the color of leaves and stems. Species in temperate or tropical zones maintain this color to match year-round greenery. Conversely, brown or tan mantises are adapted to drier landscapes, such as tree trunks or sandy areas. They often exhibit patterns or textures that break up their outline, helping them blend seamlessly with bark or grasses.
How Environment Influences Mantis Color
A mantis’s color is not always fixed; some species display color polymorphism, meaning individuals within the same species can be green or brown. The final coloration is often determined during development, particularly during the molting process. Environmental factors like humidity, light exposure, and the color of the immediate background influence which pigments are produced and retained in the new exoskeleton.
In some African species, relative humidity can trigger color change during a molt. When humidity is low, nymphs become brown, matching the dry season’s landscape; they become green if humidity is high. This mechanism allows the mantis to match seasonal changes in vegetation. Some species also develop a dark, almost black coloration, known as fire melanism, which helps them blend into landscapes recently ravaged by bush fires.
Specialized and Exotic Coloration
Beyond the common greens and browns, some mantises have evolved specialized and exotic colors that serve a different purpose than simple background matching. These hues, which can include pink, white, or yellow, are often associated with aggressive mimicry. In this strategy, the mantis uses its appearance to actively lure prey rather than just hide from them.
The Orchid Mantis is a primary example, displaying shades of pink and white that resemble a flower to an unsuspecting pollinator. These mantises attract prey by looking like a safe source of nectar or pollen, striking when the insect lands nearby. This adaptation demonstrates that for some mantises, standing out can be a successful survival strategy.